About Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a very common infection, which if not diagnosed and treated can have serious implications for women’s future reproductive health. For men it can lead to pain in the testicles or pelvis and ultimately fertility problems
But the good news is being tested and treated is a simple, painless process. A swab or urine sample is taken and you should normally get your results within around 10 days. If positive you can be prescribed a course of anti-biotics which are effective if taken as instructed.
Testing kits are free and can be collected from a number of local outlets. For more information visit the Chlamydia Screen Dorset website or call 01305 816208.
Along with providing a screening service the team also offer advice on contraception and other sexual health issues. All tests and advice carried out by the team are free and confidential.
More information on chlamydia, along with local screening services can be found online at chlamydiascreendorset.co.uk.
Free condoms
Free condoms are available through the NHS Contraception and Sexual Health Services at 55 High West Street in Dorchester, and from the Park Centre (Sexual Health Clinic) on Melcombe Avenue, Weymouth.
GUM services in Bridport
Open on a Tuesday between 9.30am – 2.30pm, the clinic offers local people advice and information on a number of conditions ranging from genital infections through to sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis and chlamydia, and conditions including HIV and AIDS.
Appointments for sexual health screening at Bridport are by prior arrangement only, however a walk in service is available for emergencies. To make an appointment call 01305 762682; if you require an appointment outside the Bridport opening hours you can arrange to visit the Park Centre in Weymouth. Walk-in clinics are held at the Park Centre every Tuesday and Friday morning, and Monday afternoon for the under 20s.
The Bridport based clinic can also provide emergency contraception, pregnancy testing and free condoms. No appointments are necessary for these services.
For more information on sexual health on the web visit the Dorset PCT website.
